throwing down the middle

[Bill Bollinger]

Ok, I will bite...

Down the middle is ok when: Your team is significantly ahead in the game and you want the batters to put the ball in play. Get this game over.

Down the middle is ok if: See #1 and you can make the ball move (up/down/left/right).

There is nothing worse than being a fielder on a team who is way ahead and the pitcher is nibbling.

Bill

 

[Amy in AZ.]

Never. It is an invitation to get your pitcher nailed in the face.

 

[Buckeye]

Thanks to everyone who replied! My biggest concern is her safety. Over the years, I have seen one to many pitchers get nailed in the face and that's my fear as a parent.

 

[Mark H]

The only time I will call for a pitch down the middle of the plate is when I'm pretty sure the pitcher won't (read: can't) throw it there.

LOL Good point.

 

[CoachFP]

You call a pitch down the middle when the pitcher can't hit the corners. You can't field a walk. Throwing down the middle should be just as easy or difficult as throwing to a corner, you are still trying to hit a spot. It's a psychological tool that you wouldn't use too often. You can still keep the ball low or high and achieve the same thing and not have to worry about a rocket shot to the head.